Although I have been in the city a week, an unfortunate accident has prevented my waiting upon you hitherto, a blow which I received upon my head from a brick, falling from the scaffolding of the building. I was stunned & senseless for a short time, & have been since so troubled with giddiness, that till yesterday, I could not see to write,—& have not ventured since the accident beyond the square of the Capitol.—Today however I am so much better that I hope to wait upon you tomorrow morning, if congress rises this evening, being unwilling to intrude upon your time while they are sitting.

Of the arrival of the Italians I heard only on the 28th. of March, all my letters having been by an error of the postmaster at Wilmington sent onto New York. They are at work, & exhibit the greatest industry & first rate abilities

The enclosed was given to me with their other papers yesterday.—With the highest esteem I am faithfully